Chandigarh, July 6 – Haryana Energy Minister, Sh. Anil Vij today said that the state has witnessed a technological revolution in electricity distribution and consumer services. The number of electricity consumers in the state has reached 81.92 lakh, out of which 49.15 lakh consumers now pay their electricity bills through digital modes. This not only reflects Haryana’s digital literacy but also signifies increased convenience, transparency, and time savings for consumers.
Rising trend of digital payments – Vij
Sh. Vij said that the trend of digital payments is growing rapidly in Haryana. The responsibility of power distribution lies with UHBVN (Uttar Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam) and DHBVN (Dakshin Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam). Over 60 percent of their total monthly revenue is now received via online platforms. Consumers, both in cities and villages, are paying through net banking, credit/debit cards, RTGS, UPI, and other digital platforms. This has not only expedited the billing process but also eliminated the need to stand in long queues.
Digital revolution in consumer services – Vij
He said that electricity consumers now receive a range of services online, not just bill payments. Services like new connections, load increase/decrease, name change, grievance redressal, and meter transfers are all available through online portals. Consumers can also register complaints via the toll-free number 1912. A central customer service center in Gurugram, and call centers in Panchkula and Gurugram, have been set up. The Panchkula center has 80 seats in winter and 180 in summer, allowing for quick resolution of complaints.
Technological improvements and use of smart metering – Vij
Sh. Vij said that automated meter reading (AMR) has been implemented in urban feeders under technical reforms in Haryana. The electronic meter reading system has reduced manual intervention and improved billing transparency. Smart grid systems have been extended in industrial areas like Manesar and Kundli, enhancing reliability and quality of power supply.
‘Mhara Gaon–Jagmag Gaon’ Scheme: Transforming rural India – Vij
He highlighted the ‘Mhara Gaon–Jagmag Gaon’ scheme, which has transformed the rural landscape of Haryana. Under this initiative, 24-hour power supply has been ensured in 5,887 villages. Rural consumers are also now utilizing digital services, which has brought a significant improvement in their lifestyle.
Historic decline in technical and commercial losses – Vij
Sh. Vij noted a historic reduction in Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C) losses over the past 13 years. In 2012-13, the loss was 29.31percent, which has now reduced to just 10.52 percent as of January 2025. UHBVN reduced losses from 35.60 percent to 9.38 percent, and DHBVN from 23.29 percent to 11.35 percent . This achievement is due to smart metering, line loss control, technical reforms, and increased consumer accountability.
Transformer damage rate also falls dharply – Vij
He informed that the transformer damage rate has also decreased significantly. In 1997-98, it was 30.45 percent, which has now come down to 4.74 percent in 2024-25. Even though the number of transformers has increased from 1.46 lakh to 7.08 lakh, the reduction in damage rate proves the strengthening of the power distribution system. This success is attributed to regular maintenance, timely repairs, modern technology, and improved monitoring.
Cyber Fraud: A new challenge in the digital age – Vij
Sh.Vij acknowledged that with the rise in online payments, cyber fraud cases have also emerged. Consumers sometimes fall prey to fraudulent calls or links. The Discoms receive complaints related to such fraud. There is an urgent need for consumer awareness and robust security measures by the Discoms to tackle this issue.
Sh. Vij said that Haryana’s electricity consumers have now become fully high-tech. Digital services, technological reforms, and 24-hour power supply have made the state a leader in the energy sector. In the coming times, the adoption of smart technologies and renewable energy will further accelerate this progress.
